KTS TRUNKLINE NEWSLETTER
Below is the KTS Trunkline archive. Please click on the issue you wish to read.
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"Benefits of Pruning in the Dormant Season"
Pruning during the dormant season helps minimize the risk of disease. Certain
species like Oak and Elm should only be pruned during the dormant
season due to concerns with Oak Wilt and Dutch Elm Disease. Several diseases
are spread by insects which are not active during the colder months.
Pruning during the dormant season also helps the healing process promoting new
growth in the spring. Pruning causes a small wound to the tree, and it requires
time to recover. In the winter, the trees are dormant allowing them to start the
recovery process.
"What's Below The Surface, Makes All The Difference"
If your tree appears to have decline throughout the canopy when the leaves begin to form in the spring, a RCE would be recommended. This procedure will help determine if there are any issues below ground. When trees are planted too deep, the roots have the potential to circle around the trunk. These roots restrict the movement of water and nutrients to the leaves as they put pressure on the trunk. Though the tree will still grow, it will not be growing to its full potential and will be susceptible to future health issues.
Root Collar Excavation is used to thoroughly examine roots and determine the best plan of action to get your tree healthy and thriving once again.
"Fall Tree Planting"
The Fall season is an ideal time of year to be planting trees; it offers some advantages that the spring season does not. Our temperatures are usually moderate to cool which minimizes the risk of trees being stressed by extreme heat. As trees prepare for winter, energy is no longer put into the canopy growth. The energy is focused below ground on the root system. When the air temperature is cooler than the soil, new root growth is promoted. This will result in a stronger and more viable root system for the next spring when the tree comes out of dormancy. Also, our fall rain showers help the trees establish their root systems. Keep in mind that trees need to be watered up until the ground freezes, especially evergreen trees. If we experience a drier than normal fall season, supplemental watering may be needed.
A lot of people are concerned that young trees cannot withstand our Chicagoland winters, that is not the case. Trees go dormant in the winter.
"The Cost of Not Spending"
Dead trees left standing have a high potential to fail and the cost for removal of the dead tree can be directly related to the length of time the tree stands in that condition.
If a homeowner waits too long to contract a tree care company to remove a dead tree, their city or village may impose fines. Letters are sent to residents notifying them they are not in compliance with a city ordinance. If the deadline to remove the tree is missed, the homeowner can be responsible for significant fines.
Also, the level of risk for field crew, as well as the surrounding area, increases the longer the dead tree is left standing.